exercise

/ˈɛksərsaɪz/
physical activity to improve health

She does exercise every morning to stay fit.

She engages in physical activity daily to maintain her health.


informalformal

Physical activity done to improve health and fitness

Regular exercise helps reduce stress.

Engaging in physical activity regularly can lower stress levels.

Commonly used to describe activities like running, swimming, or weightlifting.

formaleducational

A set of problems or questions designed to test knowledge

The teacher gave us an exercise to practice grammar.

The instructor assigned a set of questions to help students practice grammar rules.

Often used in academic or training contexts.

formal

To use or apply something in a practical way

She exercised her right to vote.

She used her legal right to participate in the election.

Commonly used with abstract concepts like rights, options, or privileges.

Collocations

exercise routinea planned series of physical activitiesexercise cautionto be careful or prudentexercise controlto manage or direct something

Related Phrases

exercise one's rightsphrase
to use one's legal or moral rights
exercise cautionphrase
to be careful or prudent

Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'exercise' changes based on context—physical activity, academic practice, or applying rights.

Gold Rule

Verb vs. Noun

As a verb, it means to use or apply something; as a noun, it refers to physical activity or practice problems.

Word Origin

From Middle French 'exercer' (to practice), from Latin 'exercere' (to keep busy, practice).

Usage Notes

The word can be a noun or a verb, with meanings varying by context. In fitness, it refers to physical activity; in education, it refers to practice problems.

Word Breakdown

ex-
out, thoroughly
prefix
+
-erc-
work, labor
root
+
-ise/-ize
to make or cause
suffix
English Dictionary